Comb

ABSTRACT

A comb with a dent formed in an outer edge surface of an edge part. A tip of the edge part is pressed against a scalp where the parting line in hair is to be formed, and a hair bundle divided outside the edge part is pinched between the edge part and a finger. Since a part of the pinched hair bundle spreads naturally inside the dent, a stuck feeling is eliminated, and the edge part moves smoothly along the parting line without the pinched hair resisting formation of the parting line. Further, in the comb, a plurality of through-holes are formed in a main body at predetermined intervals. When measuring hair, the outer surface is pressed against the scalp, and measurements of the length of hair lengths are made based on the through-holes, while a two-point contact state in which edge portions on both sides of the dent contact the scalp.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a comb which improves the efficiency in forming a parting line in head hair during hairdressing, and which is capable of assisting cutting of the head hair by allowing correct and easy measurements of the length of the head hair.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventionally, combs are generally used for hairdressing, and at barber shops and beauty salons, etc., combs may be used for sorting out head hair to be cut. In barber shops and beauty salons, etc., when a dividing line (referred to as a “parting line”) is formed during hairdressing, an edge comb part (thicker than comb teeth) having a tapered shape provided at an end of a comb main body may be used, without using a plurality of comb teeth.

FIG. 23( a) illustrates a comb D1 which is one example of a conventional comb. The comb D1 has an edge comb part D1 a with a tapered tip, which projects in parallel to a plurality of comb teeth D1 b. FIG. 23( b) illustrates a parting process using the edge comb part D1 a. The tip end of the edge comb part D1 a is pressed against a part of a scalp Ha where a parting line W is to be formed, and a finger F of a hand which does not hold the comb D1 is pressed against the edge comb part D1 a to pinch a hair bundle, which is divided outside the edge comb part D1 a, between the edge comb part D1 a and the finger F. Then, in such a state, the edge comb part D1 a is advanced along a line at which the parting line W is to be formed to sequentially divide a predetermined amount of the head hair into two parts along the parting line W on the scalp Ha, and thereby form the parting line.

On the other hand, conventionally, there is a comb having a comb main body from which a plurality of comb teeth are extended, and a scale for measurements of length is drawn on the comb main body to allow measurements of the length of the head hair (refer to the following Patent Documents 1 to 3). Moreover, the following Patent Document 4 discloses a comb in which a dot scale is burned on the comb main body or a grip part thereof with a laser beam to allow measurements of the length of the head hair by the scale.

Further, the following Cited Document 5 discloses a comb in which a plurality of through-holes are formed in a side surface of a comb main body at predetermined intervals to allow measurements of the length of the head hair by the through-holes. Further, the following Cited Document 6 discloses a comb in which a plurality of tapered end parts are formed in a side surface of a comb main body at predetermined intervals to allow measurements of the length of the head hair by the tapered end parts.

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS OF CONVENTIONAL ART Patent Documents

Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Application Publication No. S57-012104U1

Patent Document 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2007-325889A

Patent Document 3: Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Application Publication No. S53-102798U1

Patent Document 4: Japanese Registered Utility Model Application Publication No. 3107399U

Patent Document 5: Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Application Publication No. H06-066504U1

Patent Document 6: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2005-304720A

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention

As illustrated in FIG. 23( b), the hair bundle divided outside the edge comb part D1 a by the tip end of the edge comb part D1 a is pinched between the edge comb part D1 a and the finger F. However, since the finger F and the edge comb part D1 a oppose each other over a wide range along the outer circumference of the edge comb part D1 a, the predetermined amount of the hair bundle which is pinched is stuck between the finger F and the edge comb part D1 a. Thus, the hair bundle which is stuck between the finger F and the edge comb part D1 a resists the advancement of the edge comb part D1 a. Therefore, a problem that the resistance disturbs the smooth movement of the edge comb part D1 a along the line at which the parting line W is to be formed arises. In addition, since moving the edge comb part D1 a smoothly becomes impossible, part of the hair bundle, which is stuck and caught, escapes from the gap between the edge comb part D1 a and the finger F and remains near the parting line W. By such a remaining hair part, the boundary of the parting line W becomes obscured, and such a problem that the beautiful appearance of the parting line is spoiled arises.

On the other hand, when measuring the length of the head hair, if it is assumed that the comb having the scale as disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3 described above is used, it is common that the outer edge surface of the edge comb part of the comb (an outer circumferential part which is a tip end surface of the entire comb) is formed linearly or curved to be an outward convex. Thus, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 24, in order to measure the length of the head hair from the scalp Ha, when the outer edge surface of an edge comb part D2 a provided at one end of a comb D2 is pressed against the scalp Ha, the linear outer circumferential part of the edge comb part D2 a contacts the curved surface scalp Ha in a one-point contacting state. Therefore, since the comb D2 during the measurement is in an unstable posture in which the comb D2 shakes to-and-fro centering on the contacting location (it shakes in the directions indicated by black arrows illustrated in FIG. 24), there is a problem that stable measurements cannot be carried out.

Further, since the comb according to Patent Document 4 does not originally have the shape to be pressed against the scalp at the edge comb part, the comb is unsuitable for measuring the length of the head hair from the scalp. Moreover, since both the combs according to Patent Documents 5 and 6 have the shape in which the outer edge surface of the edge comb part is curved to be outwardly convex, if the outer edge surface of the edge comb part is pressed against the scalp, the outwardly convex curved surfaces contact each other. Therefore, such combs are postured more unstably than the combs according to Patent Documents 1 to 3, and there is a problem that stable measurements cannot be carried out.

Practical skill tasks in which the head hair pulled outward at a predetermined angle from the scalp is cut by a specified length may be assigned, for example, for practical skill instruction at a barber school or a beauty school, or practical skill official examinations of hairdressing and beauty. In such cases, if the angle in which the head hair is pulled outward from the scalp changes, the cutting length also changes naturally, so it becomes a very important matter in the practical skill tasks to determine the pulled-outward angle of the hair with respect to the scalp. However, since the pulled-out angle of the head hair with respect to the scalp cannot be measured by the combs according to Patent Documents 1 to 6 described above, the combs are not effective for the practical skill tasks described above.

Further, the comb is generally held in various ways depending on the user; some users hold the comb main body from left and right by their fingertips, and some users hold the comb by hooking the comb at the base of their fingers, etc. The comb according to Cited Document 6 is configured so that the tapered end part, provided in the comb main body in order to perform the measurements of the length of the head hair, functions as a skid-resistance for the fingertips. However, since the tapered end part cannot stop the base of the fingers, etc., there is also a problem that user-friendliness is not enough for some users who hold the comb by hooking the comb at the base of their fingers, etc.

The present invention is made in view of the above situations, and one purpose of the present invention is to provide a comb which reduces the tendency of a hair bundle to get stuck between an edge comb part and a user's finger when forming a parting line, by forming a dented portion in an outer edge surface of the edge comb part, to allow for smooth parting work.

Further, another purpose of the present invention is to provide a comb which allows measurements of head hair length from a scalp, and which stabilizes the posture of the comb to allow easy and correct measurements of the length of the head hair with the dented portion described above by securing a two-point contacting state at parts remaining on both sides of the dented portion when the outer edge surface of the edge comb part is pressed against the scalp.

Further, still another purpose of the present invention is to provide a comb which is improved in user-friendliness by using the dented portion described above not only for correct measurements of the length, but also for stopping bases of fingers, etc., of the user holding the comb.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In order to solve the situations described above, a comb in accordance with one aspect of the present invention is provided. The comb includes a comb main body, one end edge comb part formed on one end side in a longitudinal direction of the comb main body, and a plurality of comb teeth formed on the comb main body. A dented portion is formed in an outer edge surface between a tip end side and a base end side of the one end edge comb part.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the dented portion is formed in the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part (the outer circumferential part corresponding to one of the tip end surfaces of the entire comb), a space due to the dented portion is formed between the one end edge comb part and the finger which is applied to the one end edge comb part when forming the parting line of the head hair by using the one end edge comb part. Therefore, it becomes possible to spread the hair bundle pinched between the one end edge comb part and the finger, within the space formed by the dented portion, easing the pinched state and decreasing the resistance to advancement of the one end edge comb part smoothly along the line where the parting line is to be formed. As a result, a beautiful parting line can be formed.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the comb main body has indexes indicative of distances parallel to the longitudinal direction. The indexes allow a measurement of a length of head hair based on the indexes as the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is pressed against a scalp to contact outer edge portions that remain on both sides of the dented portion with the scalp.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the comb main body has indexes for measuring the distances, where the one end edge comb part having the dented portion as described above is formed, when the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part that is the tip end surface on the one end side of the entire comb is pressed against the scalp, the outer circumferential parts that remain on both sides of the dented portion contact the scalp. Therefore, the state of two-point contact with respect to the scalp can be ensured. Since the posture of the comb during measurement becomes stabilized due to the two-point contacting state, the length of the head hair can be measured correctly.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, a grip part may be formed on the other end side of the comb main body. An outer edge dented portion may be formed in an outer edge surface of the grip part. The measurements of the length of the head hair may be carried out based on the indexes by applying the outer edge surface of the grip part against the scalp to contact the outer edge portions that remain on both sides of the outer edge dented portion with the scalp.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the grip part is formed on the other end side of the comb main body, and the dented portion is formed in the outer edge surface of the grip part (the outer circumferential part that is the other end surface of the entire comb). Thus, when the outer circumferential part of the grip part is pressed against the scalp, the state of two-point contact with respect to the scalp can be ensured. Therefore, the measurement of the length of the head hair can be carried out in a stable posture even from the grip part side. Further, since the dented portion formed in the grip part also functions as a hooking portion for the base of the finger for instance, the user-friendliness of the comb can also be improved.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the comb may include the other end edge comb part formed on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the comb main body. The other end dented portion may be formed in an outer edge surface between a tip end side and a base end side of the other end edge comb part. The measurement of the length of the head hair may be carried out based on the indexes by applying the outer edge surface of the other end edge comb part against the scalp to contact the outer edge portions that remain on both sides of the other end dented portion with the scalp.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the dented portion (the other end dented portion) is also formed in the outer edge surface of the other end edge comb part formed on the other end side of the comb main body (the outer circumferential part corresponding to the other end surface of the entire comb), the state of two-point contact with respect to the scalp can be ensured even if the outer circumferential part of the other end edge comb part is pressed against the scalp. Thus, by using either side of the comb, the stable measurement can be carried out. Therefore, the correct measurement of the head hair can be carried out from either side of the comb according to the user's convenience.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part may be formed obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the comb main body.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is formed obliquely, the comb is in an inclined posture with respect to a normal line direction of the scalp having a curved surface when the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is pressed against the scalp in order to measure the head hair. Thus, the length of the head hair can be measured at a predetermined oblique angle with respect to the scalp. Therefore, for example, for practical skill instruction at a barber school or a beauty school, or practical skill official examinations of hairdressing and beauty, in order to manage the case where a practical skill task to pull hair outward at a predetermined angle and cut the hair by a predetermined length is assigned, the comb suitable for the practical skill task, etc., can be provided if the oblique angle of the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is designed to be an angle which is frequently given in the practical skill task.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part and the outer edge surface of the other end edge comb part may be formed obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the comb main body, respectively. An angle of the oblique outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part may be different from an angle of the oblique outer edge surface of the other end edge comb part.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the oblique angles of the respective outer edge surfaces of the one end edge comb part and the other end edge comb part are different from each other, the measurement of the length of the head hair can be carried out correctly and easily with the two kinds of different angles. Therefore, if the angles of the outer edge surfaces of the edge comb parts at both the ends are designed to be two kinds of angles that are frequently assigned for practical skill tasks, etc., respectively, the comb becomes very useful for the practical skill tasks, etc.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the comb main body has first indexes indicative of distances from the one end side of the comb main body and second indexes indicative of distances from the other end side of the comb main body.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the comb main body has the first indexes indicative of the distances from the one end side of the comb main body and the second indexes indicative of the distances from the other end side, the distances can correctly be measured from both sides of the comb main body by properly using the first indexes and the second indexes.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the comb main body has first indexes corresponding to a first distance unit system and second indexes corresponding to a second distance unit system.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the first indexes and the second indexes corresponding to the two kinds of distance unit systems are formed, the measurement of the length of the head hair based on the two kinds of distance unit systems can be carried out by the single comb. Note that as one example of the two kinds of distance unit systems, it is preferred that, for example, the first indexes are designed to be in a mm (millimeter) unit system which is often used in Japan, etc., and the second indexes are designed to be in an inch (inch) unit system which is often used in Europe, the United States, etc.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the first indexes may be different in appearance from the second indexes.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the first index and the second index are designed to be different in their appearances, the first index and the second index can be distinguished from each other at a glance, and the measurement of the length of the head hair can smoothly be carried out based on the indexes which the user wants to use, even though there are the two kinds of indexes. Note that as one example in which there are first indexes and second indexes different from each other in their appearances, the first indexes are shown by forming a plurality of concaves and convexes in the back side of the comb main body, and designing the intervals between the concaves or the convexes (i.e., the pitch) to be a predetermined dimension, while the second indexes are indicated by forming a plurality of through-holes in the comb main body, and designing the intervals between the respective through-holes (i.e., the pitch) to be a predetermined dimension.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, a comb part having a plurality of comb teeth may be provided to the one end edge comb part, and the outer edge surface may be formed by tip ends of the respective comb teeth of the comb part and the tip ends of the respective comb teeth of the comb part form the outer edge surface.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the comb part is provided so as to form the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part, it becomes easy to push the hair aside by the comb part and to press the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part against the scalp. Therefore, even when the hair is thick or long, so that the one end edge comb part is obstructed by the hair and cannot easily reach the scalp, the hair can be divided by the comb part, and the one end edge comb part can be securely pressed (butted) against the scalp.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, a thickness of the one end edge comb part may be larger at the base end side than the tip end side. A concave portion may be formed at a center part in a thickness direction of the one end edge comb part, in the outer edge surface on the base end side of the one end edge comb part.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the concave portion is formed in the center part in the thickness direction on the base end side of the one end edge comb part which is thicker, three outer circumferential parts remain around the dented portion and the concave portion. As a result, when the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is pressed against the scalp, the remaining three outer edge portions contact the scalp, and thereby, a state of three-point contact with respect to the scalp can be ensured. Further, the stabilized posture of the comb can be ensured, and, thereby, the length of the head hair can be measured more easily and more correctly.

In the comb in accordance with the aspect of the present invention, a side dented portion may be formed in the one end edge comb part, in at least one of side surfaces between the tip end side and the base end side.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the side dented portion is formed in at least one of the side surfaces of the one end edge comb part, a space where the hair bundle can be spread is ensured also in the side. Thus, when the one end edge comb part is moved to carry out the parting work, it becomes more difficult for the hair bundle divided by the tip end of the one end edge comb part to get stuck. Therefore, the workability in the parting work can further be improved, and the working efficiency can also be improved. Note that if the side dented portion is formed so as to communicate with the dented portion of the outer edge surface, it becomes suitable because an integrated dented space can be ensured and a sense of resistance by the pinched hair bundle can be further reduced.

Effects of the Invention

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the predetermined space can be ensured in the gap between the user's finger and the one end edge comb part by forming the dented portion in the one end edge comb part, and thereby reducing the tendency of hair bundles to get stuck inside the gap. Therefore, the parting work can smoothly be carried out, and also such a situation that part of the stuck hair bundle remains in the parting line is prevented, and, thus, it is useful for the efficient formation of the beautiful parting line.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the indexes for measuring the distances are indicated on the comb main body from which the one end edge comb part having the dented portion is extended. Thus, when the outer circumferential part of the one end edge comb part that is a comb tip end is pressed against the scalp, since the outer edge portions that remain on both sides of the dented portion contact the scalp, the state of two-point contact with respect to the scalp can be ensured, the posture of the comb during measurement is stabilized by the two-point contact state, and, thereby, the length of the head hair can be correctly measured. In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the grip part is formed on the other end side of the comb main body and the dented portion is formed in the outer circumference of the grip part, the state of two-point contact with respect to the scalp can be ensured even if the outer circumference of the grip part is pressed against the scalp, and the measurement of the length of the head hair can be carried out at the stable posture even from the grip part side. In addition, the dented portion formed in the grip part can function as a hooking portion, such as for the base of the finger, and, thereby the user-friendliness of the comb can also be improved.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the posture of the comb can also be stabilized by the other end dented portion formed in the other end edge comb part when measuring by the other end side, and, thereby, the user-friendliness of the comb for the measurement of the head hair can be improved.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is formed obliquely, the precise measurement of the length of the head hair can be carried out at the oblique angle, and the suitable comb can be provided for the performances of the practical skills in the schools of hairdressing and beauty, or the official examinations.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the angles of the outer edge surfaces of the comb edges at both the ends are made different from each other, the precise measurement of the length of the head hair can be carried out with the two kinds of oblique angles.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the first indexes indicative of the distances from the one end side and the second indexes indicative of the distances from the other end side are formed in the comb main body, the length of the head hair can be measured precisely and easily by measuring at either one of both the ends of the comb main body, regardless of the comb's full length.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the first indexes and the second indexes correspond to the two kinds of distance unit systems indicated, the measurement of the length of the head hair can be carried out based on the two kinds of distance unit systems with the single comb.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the first indexes and the second indexes are made different in their appearance from each other, the two kinds of indexes can be distinguished at a glance.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the comb part is provided in the one end edge comb part, the head hair can be pushed aside by the comb part, and the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part can be pressed (butted) against the scalp, and, thereby, the comb part is useful for the exact measurement of the length of the hair head. In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the concave portion is formed in the center part on the thicker base end side of the one end edge comb part, and the three outer circumferential parts are designed to remain around the dented portion and the concave portion, the state of three-point contact with the scalp can be ensured when the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is pressed against the scalp. Thus, the more stabilized posture of the comb can be ensured, and, thereby, the length of the head hair can be measured easier and more precisely.

In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, since the side dented portion is formed in at least one of the side surfaces of the one end edge comb part, the space which can prevent the hair bundle from being stuck can also be ensured in the side surface. Thus, the workability of the parting work can further be improved when the parting work is carried out by the one end edge comb part.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a comb according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2( a) is a front view illustrating details on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the comb, and (b) is a side view illustrating one end outer edge surface of one end edge comb part.

FIG. 3 is a schematic view schematically illustrating a parting work (parting line formation) using the one end edge comb part of the comb according to the present invention.

FIG. 4( a) is a schematic view seen from the side of the head, illustrating a state where the one end edge comb part of the comb is pressed against a scalp, and (b) is a schematic view seen from the front of the head, illustrating a state where the one end edge comb part of the comb is pressed against the scalp.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view seen from above the head, illustrating a state where the one end edge comb part of the comb is pressed against the scalp.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged schematic view of the one end edge comb part illustrating a state where the one end edge comb part of the comb is pressed against the scalp.

FIG. 7 illustrates a comb according to a second embodiment which is provided with a grip part, where (a) is a front view, (b) is a schematic view of a substantial part illustrating one example of a holding method, and (c) is a schematic view of a substantial part illustrating another holding method.

FIG. 8 is a front view of a comb according to a third embodiment which is provided with a bar-shaped grip part.

FIG. 9 illustrates a comb according to a fourth embodiment, where (a) is a front view illustrating a substantial part thereof, and (b) is a schematic view illustrating a state of cutting with a pair of hairdressing scissors positioned by the comb.

FIG. 10 illustrates a comb according to a fifth embodiment, where (a) is a plan view illustrating a substantial part thereof, (b) is a schematic view illustrating a comb tooth with a narrow width, and (c) is a schematic view illustrating a comb tooth with a wide width.

FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a comb according to a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 12 illustrates the comb according to the sixth embodiment, where (a) is a plan view illustrating one end side in the longitudinal direction and (b) is a plan view illustrating the other end side in the longitudinal direction.

FIG. 13 illustrates a comb according to a seventh embodiment, where (a) is a front view illustrating a substantial part on one end side, and (b) is a schematic perspective view illustrating a state where the comb is pressed against the scalp while a comb part thereof pushes the head hair aside.

FIG. 14 is a schematic view illustrating a comb according to an eighth embodiment.

FIG. 15 illustrates the comb according to the eighth embodiment, where (a) is a schematic view seen from the side of the head, illustrating a state where one end edge comb part is pressed against the scalp, and (b) is a schematic view seen from the front of the head, illustrating a state where the one end edge comb part is pressed against the scalp.

FIG. 16 illustrates the comb according to the eighth embodiment, where (a) is a schematic view seen from the side of the head, illustrating a state where the other end edge comb part is pressed against the scalp, and (b) is a schematic view seen from above the head, illustrating a state where the other end edge comb part is pressed against the scalp.

FIG. 17 illustrates a comb according to a ninth embodiment, where (a) is a schematic perspective view illustrating a substantial part on one end side in the longitudinal direction, (b) is a side view illustrating an outer edge surface of one end edge comb part, and (c) is a plan view on the one end side.

FIG. 18 is a schematic view illustrating a state where the comb according to the ninth embodiment is pressed against the scalp.

FIG. 19 illustrates a comb according to a tenth embodiment, where (a) is a schematic view illustrating a front elevational view, and (b) is a schematic view illustrating a rear elevational view.

FIG. 20 illustrates a comb according to an eleventh embodiment, where (a) is a schematic view illustrating a front view, and (b) is a schematic view illustrating a rear elevational view.

FIG. 21 illustrates a comb according to a twelfth embodiment, where (a) is a front view illustrating details on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the comb, and (b) is a side view illustrating one end outer edge surface of one end edge comb part.

FIG. 22 illustrates a state where a finger is pressed against the one end edge comb part of the comb according to the twelfth embodiment in order to carry out a parting work, where (a) is a schematic view seen from above the comb, and (b) is a schematic view seen from the one end outer edge surface.

FIG. 23( a) is a front view illustrating one end side in the longitudinal direction of a conventional comb, and (b) is a schematic view schematically illustrating a parting work in which one end edge comb part of the conventional comb is used.

FIG. 24 is a schematic view illustrating a problem in a state where a conventional comb with a scale is pressed against the scalp.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating the entire part of a comb 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The comb 1 of the present invention is usable for normal hairdressing, etc., and other than that, the comb is capable of forming a parting line of head hair and measuring a length of the head hair (referred to as a “hair bundle,” and also referred to as a “hair panel”) to assist beautiful hairdressing and cutting.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the comb 1 is made of synthetic resin, and is configured to be provided with one end edge comb part 3 and the other end edge comb part 4 respectively in one end side 2 a and the other end part 2 b in a square bar shaped comb main body 2, and a plurality of comb teeth 6 are formed so as to extend from the comb main body 2 between the one end edge comb part 3 and the other end edge comb part 4. Note that an X-axis direction illustrated in FIG. 1 is a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the comb 1 (the comb main body 2), a Y-axis direction which intersects perpendicularly with the X-axis direction is a direction parallel to an extending direction of the comb teeth 6 and the respective edge comb parts 3 and 4, and a Z-axis direction which intersects perpendicularly with the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is a directions parallel to the thickness direction of the comb 1 (the comb main body 2) and the respective edge comb parts 3 and 4 (same for other drawings). Hereinafter, the comb 1 is described in detail.

As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2( a), the comb main body 2 is formed with a plurality of through-holes 7 which penetrate the comb main body 2 from one side surface 2 c to the other side surface 2 d, parallel to the Z-axis direction. Each through-hole 7 has an ellipse shape which is elongated in the X-axis direction, and an elliptical counterbore is formed in the circumference of each ellipse. Note that in the first embodiment, the ratio of an inner diameter on the major axis side of the through-hole 7 to an inner diameter on the minor axis side is set to 2 to 1, and, as one example, the inner diameter on the major axis side is set to 5 mm (millimeter) and the inner diameter on the minor axis side is set to 2.5 mm.

Further, as illustrated in FIG. 2( a), the through-hole 7 of the comb main body 2, which is located closest to the one end side 2 a, is formed at a location such that the center of the through-hole 7 is separated from an outer circumferential part (a top portion 3 g of an outer edge portion) of one end edge comb part 3 by a distance L, and the through-hole 7 which is the second closest to one end side 2 a, and the subsequent through-holes 7 are formed such that the intervals between the centers of the respective through-holes 7 become the distance L (note that the center of the through-hole 7 located closest to the other end side 2 b is formed at a location at the distance L from an outer end of the other end edge comb part 4, like the one end side). As a particular example of the distance L, when using the comb 1 for measurement in a millimeter system of units, the distance L is preferred to be set to 10 mm, etc., and when using the comb 1 for measurement in an inch system of units, the distance L is preferred to be set to 1 inch or 0.5 inch, etc. The through-holes 7 formed at such intervals correspond to indexes that indicate predetermined dimensions by the distances L (indexes that indicate the distances parallel to the longitudinal directions of the comb main body 2).

The comb main body 2 is formed in the longitudinal directions by the dimensions by which the respective through-holes 7 are arrayed at the intervals of the distances L as described above. Note that in order to allow a center portion 2 e (refer to FIG. 1) in the longitudinal directions of the comb main body 2 to function as a grip part, no through-hole 7 is formed in the center portion 2 e. Further, the comb 1 includes comb teeth 6 a spaced at intervals which are wide (as one example of the interval, 3 mm), which are provided toward the one end side 2 a bordering the center of the center portion 2 e, and comb teeth 6 b spaced at intervals which are narrow (as one example of the interval, 1.5 mm), which are provided toward the other end side 2 b. Note that a comb tooth 6 c located closest to the one end edge comb part 3 among the comb teeth 6 a on one end side is shortened in its full length compared to others to facilitate a work of parting line formation of the head hair (parting work) by the one end edge comb part 3, as illustrated in FIG. 2( a).

As illustrated in FIG. 1, and FIGS. 2( a) and (b), the one end edge comb part 3 has a tapered shape where its tip end is pointed, and extends from the one end side 2 a of the comb main body 2 in a direction which intersects perpendicularly with the comb main body 2 (a direction parallel to the Y-axis direction) to serve as a protection by surrounding the comb teeth 6. In the one end edge comb part 3, one end dented portion 3 d having a curved shape is formed in an outer circumferential part (a surface that serves as an outer edge) at an intermediate location in the direction parallel to the Y-axis direction from a tapering-shaped tip end 3 a side to a base end 3 b side which is a coupling side to the comb main body 2. In detail, the one end dented portion 3 d which is curved in an arc shape is formed in one end outer edge surface 3 c (a surface of the outer edge portion which serves as the outer circumference corresponding to the surface seen in the direction of an arrow indicating the X-axis direction) of the one end edge comb part 3. It is preferred that the curvature of the one end dented portion 3 d is slightly smaller than the smallest curvature part in a head of a common human body, and the radius of curvature is set to 25 mm in the example illustrated in FIG. 2( a).

In the one end edge comb part 3, since the one end dented portion 3 d described above is formed in the one end outer edge surface 3 c, outer edge portions 3 e and 3 f remain protruded, on both sides (the tip end 3 a side and the base end 3 b side) of the one end dented portion 3 d in the Y-axis direction, respectively. Further, the tip end 3 a side and the base end 3 b side of the one end outer edge surface 3 c are formed in curved shapes, respectively, and, thereby, the one end outer edge surface 3 c is formed in a continuous curved shape in the Y-axis direction, as illustrated in FIG. 2( a), where the outer edge portion 3 e of the tip end 3 a is convex, the one end dented portion 3 d at the intermediate location is concave, and the outer edge portion 3 f of the base end 3 b is convex. Note that as illustrated in FIG. 2( a), the outer edge portion 3 e of the tip end 3 a is most convex at a top portion 3 h, and the outer edge portion 3 f of the base end 3 b is most convex at a top portion 3 g. These top portions 3 g and 3 h are positioned at equivalent locations in the X-axis directions, and these top portions 3 g and 3 h serve as reference points of the distance L of the through-hole 7 of the comb main body 2, as described above, which is closest to the one end side 2 a from the outer end of the one end edge comb part 3. Note that in FIG. 2( b), in order to distinguish a boundary of the locations where the concave one end dented portion 3 d, and the convex outer edge portions 3 e and 3 f are formed, dashed-dotted lines are illustrated for convenience, but these dashed-dotted lines are imaginary lines and are not actually indicated on the one end edge comb part 3 of the comb 1.

Further, the other end edge comb part 4 provided to the other end side 2 b of the comb main body 2 illustrated in FIG. 1 is formed so as to be symmetrical to the one end edge comb part 3 described above with respect to the center portion 2 e in the longitudinal directions of the comb main body 2 as the center. In other words, the other end edge comb part 4 includes the other end dented portion 4 d which is formed in the other end outer edge surface 4 c corresponding to the outer circumference which is located on an outer side in the X-axis direction, at an intermediate location from a tip end 4 a to a base end 4 b which is located on a coupling side to the comb main body 2, and outer edge portions 4 e and 4 f remain on both sides (a tip end 4 a side and a base end 4 b side) of the other end dented portion 4 d, respectively.

FIG. 3 illustrates a state of forming the parting line by using the one end edge comb part 3 of the comb 1 described above (note that in order to clarify the feature of the invention, illustration of the through-holes 7, etc., is omitted in FIG. 3). For the formation of the parting line, the tip end 3 a of the one end edge comb part 3 is pressed against a location of scalp Ha, where a parting line W is to be formed, to divide the head hair into two parts at the parting line W, and the parting line is formed while pinching the head hair divided to the outside of the one end edge comb part 3 between the outer circumferential part of the one end edge comb part 3 and a finger F. In the comb 1 of this embodiment, since the one end dented portion 3 d is formed in the outer circumferential part of the one end outer edge portion 3, a space S between the one end edge comb part 3 and the finger F is produced. Further, since the outer circumference (the one end outer edge surface 3 c) of the one end edge comb part 3 is configured so that the outer edge portion 3 e on the tip end 3 a side and the outer edge portion 3 f on the base end 3 b side are convex as described above, the finger F pressed against the one end edge comb part 3 contacts the one end edge comb part 3 centering on the convex parts. Thus, the contacting state between the one end edge comb part 3 and the finger F is reduced in front and to the rear of the convex parts, compared with the conventional art (refer to FIG. 23( b)).

For this reason, the hair bundle between the one end edge comb part 3 and the finger F is spread naturally within the space S due to the one end dented portion 3 d, and the pinching forces in front and rear of the convex parts of the outer edge portion 3 e on the tip end 3 a side and the outer edge portion 3 f on the base end 3 b side become weaker compared with the conventional art. Thus, since the hair bundle pinched between the one end edge comb part 3 and the finger F is prevented from getting stuck throughout the large range, unlike the conventional art, the sense of resistance due to the hair bundle being stuck is eliminated when the one end edge comb part 3 is moved along the line where the parting line W is to be formed. Therefore, the one end edge comb part 3 can smoothly be moved, and the parting work can efficiently be carried out. Further, by preventing the hair bundle from getting stuck, some of the head hairs slip out from the hair bundle which is divided outside the one end edge comb part 3, the clear parting line W can be formed, and the beautiful appearance of the parting line can be ensured.

FIGS. 4( a) and (b), and FIG. 5 illustrate a situation where the comb 1 described above is used for measurements of the length of the head hair, and illustrate an example where a human head model used for cutting practice (normally called a “wig”), etc., is used as an object for cutting. However, similar conditions apply when cutting the hair on the head of a human body. This human head model H is formed by implanting hair over the entire head part which imitates the human head (note that in FIGS. 4( a) and (b), and FIG. 5, illustration of the entire hair implanted in the head part is omitted and only the necessary hair parts are illustrated, in order to clarify the feature of the state of use).

FIG. 4( a) is a view seen from the side of the human head model H, and illustrates a case where measurements are made while one side surface 2 c of the comb main body 2 (refer to FIG. 1) is oriented so as to correspond to the side direction of the human head model H. In the measurements, hair bundles (hair panels) h1, h2, and h3 which serve as the measuring objects are gathered from the head part respectively by a width of about 10 to 50 mm, and the lengths of these hair bundles h1, h2, and h3 are measured from a scalp Ha using the comb 1. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4( a), when measuring the hair bundle h1 located at a rear portion of the head part, the hair bundle h1 gathered from the head part is raised from the scalp Ha, and the comb main body 2 of the comb 1 is then placed along the hair bundle h1. At this time, the one end outer edge surface 3 c of the one end edge comb part 3 of the comb 1 is pressed (butted) against the scalp Ha which serves as a root part of the hair bundle h1 of the human head model H.

FIG. 6 illustrates the details of the state where the one end outer edge surface 3 c of the one end edge comb part 3 of the comb 1 is pressed against the scalp Ha near the rear portion of the head part. Since the one end dented portion 3 d described above is formed in the one end outer edge surface 3 c of the one end edge comb part 3, when the one end outer edge surface 3 c is pressed against the scalp Ha, the outer edge portions 3 e and 3 f, which are convex on both sides of the one end dented portion 3 d, contact the scalp Ha (more specifically, they contact mostly at top portions 3 h and 3 g of the outer edge portions 3 e and 3 f, respectively). Since the one end dented portion 3 d is formed so as to have a curvature slightly smaller than the smallest curvature part in the head part of a common human body, a gap is produced between the one end dented portion 3 d and the scalp Ha, and thereby the outer edge portions 3 e and 3 f on both sides contact the scalp Ha. Therefore, when the comb 1 is pressed against the scalp Ha at the one end outer edge surface 3 c of the one end edge comb part 3, the comb 1 is in a state of two-point contact at the outer edge portions 3 e and 3 f to the scalp Ha, and a stable posture of the comb 1 can be maintained without the comb 1 swaying in white arrow directions (left and right directions) illustrated in FIG. 6 (it does not shake in the white arrow directions). Thereby, the comb 1 can measure the length of the head hair precisely and easily compared with the conventional comb D2 illustrated in FIG. 24 (the measurements of length are performed by using the plurality of through-holes 7 described above as the indexes of each distance L).

Note that other hair bundles h2 and h3, etc., illustrated in FIG. 4( a) can also be measured similarly to the hair bundle h1 described above. Of course, the measurement of hair can also be carried out using units of hair, such as one hair or two hairs, different from the unit of hair bundles (hair panels) described above.

FIG. 4( b) is a view seen from the front of the human head model H, and illustrates a case where measurements are made while the one side surface 2 c of the comb main body 2 (refer to FIG. 1) is oriented so as to correspond to the front direction of the human head model H. Also in the measurements of such a case, hair bundles h10, h11, and h12, etc., which serve as the measuring objects, are gathered from the head part, and the comb 1 which is pressed against the scalp Ha at the one end outer edge surface 3 c is oriented along the hair bundles h10, h11, and h12, etc. Thus, the comb 1 can make measurements similar to the case of FIG. 4( a) described above, and as illustrated in FIG. 6, a state of two-point contact is ensured on both sides of the one end dented portion 3 d to allow the comb 1 to carry out stable measurements.

FIG. 5 is a view seen from above the human head model H, and illustrates a case where measurements are made while the one side surface 2 c of the comb main body 2 (refer to FIG. 1) is oriented so as to correspond to the upward direction of the human head model H. Also in the measurements of such a case, hair bundle h20, etc., which serves as the measuring object near the rear portion of the head part, is gathered from the head part, and the comb 1 is oriented along the hair bundle h20, etc. Thus, a similar measurement as in the cases of FIGS. 4( a) and (b) described above can be carried out. Also in such a case, since the one end outer edge surface 3 c of the comb 1 which is pressed against the scalp Ha is in the state of two-point contact as illustrated in FIG. 6, it can carry out stable measurements of length. Note that FIGS. 4( a) and (b), and FIG. 5 illustrate examples of the measurements of length, and similar measurements are also possible at other parts of the head part.

Further, if a tip end position of the hair which is to be gathered from the head part has been correctly confirmed, it is preferred to use a type of comb 10 called a tail comb, in combination with the comb 1, as illustrated in FIG. 5. The comb 10 of the tail comb type has a bar-shaped grip part 10 b projecting from a comb main body 10 a, and the entire combination of the comb 1 and the comb 10 becomes an L-shape by inserting the grip part 10 b into the through-hole 7 of the comb 1. Thus, it becomes easier to measure the length of the hair compared with the case where the length of the hair is measured only by the through-hole 7 of the comb 1, based on the positional relationship between the tip end of the hair which is the measuring object and the bar-shaped grip part 10 b inserted into the through-hole 7. Note that the through-hole 7 of the comb 1 into which the grip part 10 b of the comb 10 is inserted is changed suitably according to the length of the hair which is the measuring object. Therefore, if one through-hole 7 is not suitable after one measurement, another measurement is made after changing to another through-hole 7 at a suitable position. The method of measurement which combined such a comb 10 with the comb 1 is, of course, also applicable to FIGS. 4( a) and (b), and when using the through-holes 7 as the indexes indicative of dimensions, the method is superior compared to the scales of the conventional combs (refer to Patent Documents 1 to 3) in that the method of measurement which combines such a comb 10 with the comb 1 can be realized.

Note that the measurements of the length of the hair of the head (hair) described above are described by the case where the one end outer edge surface 3 c of the one end edge comb part 3 is pressed against the scalp Ha. However, even when the other end outer edge surface 4 c of the other end edge comb part 3 is pressed (placed) against the scalp Ha, the correct measurements of length can be carried out while the comb 1 is in the stable posture due to the existence of the other end dented portion 4 d, similarly to the case where the one end outer edge surface 3 c is pressed against the scalp Ha. For this reason, the user of the comb 1 can carry out the measurements of length by either one end side 2 a or the other end side 2 b of the comb main body 2 without needing to care about the orientation of the comb 1, so the comb 1 also has an advantage on this point compared to the conventional combs (refer to Patent Documents 1 to 3).

Note that the comb 1 according to the first embodiment is not limited to the form described above, and various modifications can be considered. For example, when making the configuration simple, the other end outer edge surface 4 c of the other end edge comb part 4 may not be formed with the other end dented portion 4 d, but the other end outer edge surface 4 c may be formed in a shape similar to the conventional art, and the comb 1 may be configured to have specifications in which only the one end edge comb part 3 is pressed against the scalp during measurement. Further, it is possible to use various forms other than the through-holes 7 as the indexes indicative of the distances in the longitudinal direction of the comb main body 2, and, for example, it is possible to use the scales illustrated in Patent Documents 1 to 3 described above, etc.

FIGS. 7( a), (b), and (c) illustrate a comb 11 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The comb 11 of the second embodiment is characterized by a plate-shaped grip part 15 which is provided so as to extend in the X-axis direction from the other end edge comb part 14 on the other end side 12 b of a comb main body 12, and a dented portion 15 d (outer edge dented portion) is formed in an outer edge surface 15 c which serves as an outer end of the grip part 15 in the X-axis directions. This dented portion 15 d of the outer edge surface 15 c is different in shape from the other end dented portion 4 d which is formed in the other end edge comb part 4 of the comb 1 described above, and is deeply dented in a V-shape, instead of the arc shape. Particularly, the depth (the depth in the X-axis directions) of the dented portion 15 d has a ratio of about 1:2 to the opening width of the dented portion 15 d in the Y-axis directions, and, as one example, the depth is 15 mm and the opening width is 30 mm. Note that in the outer edge surface 15 c of the grip part 15, outer edge portions 15 e and 15 f exist on one end 15 a side and the other end 15 b side which are both sides of the dented portion 15 d so as to project.

Further, the comb 11 is configured to be equivalent to the comb 1 of the first embodiment, other than the parts described above. One end edge comb part 13 is provided on one end side 12 a of the comb main body 12 where a plurality of through-holes 17 are formed and from which a plurality of comb teeth 16 are extended. In the one end edge comb part 13, one end dented portion 13 d is formed in one end outer edge surface 13 c in the direction parallel to the Y-axis direction, at an intermediate location from a tip end 13 a to a base end 13 b, and outer edge portions 13 e and 13 f are formed on both sides of the one end dented portion 13 d.

First, such a comb 11 can carry out a parting work as illustrated in FIG. 3 by the one end edge comb part 13. In addition, by pressing either the one end outer edge portion 13 c of the one end edge comb part 13 or the outer end portion 15 c of the grip part 15 against the scalp, stable measurements of length can be carried out at both the ends of the comb 11 in the longitudinal direction due to the existence of the one end dented portion 13 d or the dented portion 15 d, in a manner equivalent to the comb 1 of the first embodiment described above. In addition, in the comb 11 of the second embodiment, the dented portion 15 d of the grip part 15 can also be used as a locking portion for a finger, etc., while the user is holding the comb 11.

FIG. 7( b) illustrates one example in which the dented portion 15 d is used as the hooking portion, and illustrates a suitable example for a type of user who pinches the comb 11 in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) as his/her way to hold the comb 11. Particularly, the way to hold the comb 11 is such that the grip part 15 is pinched from both sides thereof in a state in which the comb 11 is hooked by pressing the webbing between the thumb and the index finger against the dented portion 15 d. In such a case, since the projected outer edge portions 15 a and 15 b of the grip part 15 d are locked on the circumference of the base of the thumb, the thumb catches better, and such a problem as that of the comb 11 falling from the user's hand hardly occurs.

Further, FIG. 7( c) illustrates a suitable example for the type of user who holds the comb 11 by pinching the comb 11 in the width direction (the height direction or the Y-axis direction) as his/her way to hold the comb 11, and the way to hold the comb 11 is to pinch both the ends around the grip part 15 between the thumb and the index finger in a state in which an area near the base of the index finger is pressed against the dented portion 15 d. In such a case, since the projected outer edge portions 15 a and 15 b of the grip part 15 d are locked so that the outer edge portions 15 a and 15 b are bitten into the edge part of the palm, such a problem as that of the comb 11 falling from the user's hand hardly occurs. Note that the comb 11 according to the second embodiment is not limited to the form as described above, but, for example, the scales illustrated in Patent Documents 1 to 3 described above can also be used as the indexes indicative of the distances in the longitudinal direction of the comb main body 12, instead of the through-holes 17.

FIG. 8 illustrates a comb 21 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The comb 21 of the third embodiment is generally a type called a tail comb, and it is characterized by a bar-shaped grip part 25 which extends from the other end edge comb part 24 of a substantially triangular shape provided to the other end side 22 b of a comb main body 22.

The comb 21 is formed in a form equivalent to the comb 1 of the first embodiment, other than the parts described above. One end edge comb part 23 is formed at one end side 22 a of the comb main body 22 where a plurality of through-holes 27 are formed and from which a plurality of comb teeth 26 are extended. In this one end edge comb part 23, one end dented portion 23 d is formed in one end outer edge surface 23 c in the direction parallel to the Y-axis direction, at an intermediate location from a tip end 23 a to a base end 23 b, and outer edge portions 23 e and 23 f are formed on both sides of the one end dented portion 23 d.

With such a comb 21, the parting work as illustrated in FIG. 3 and the correct measurements of length at the stable posture as illustrated in FIG. 6 can be carried out similar to with the comb 1 of the first embodiment described above, by the one end dented portion 23 d of the one end edge comb part 23, while ensuring user-friendliness similar to the conventional tail comb by the bar-shaped grip part 25 on the other end part 22 b side. Note that it is possible to use, also in the comb 21 of the third embodiment, the scales illustrated in Patent Documents 1 to 3, etc., described above, as the indexes indicative of the distances, instead of the through-holes 27.

FIGS. 9( a) and (b) illustrate a comb 31 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, and the comb 31 of the fourth embodiment is characterized in the indexes indicative of dimensions. In other words, the comb 31 is formed with a plurality of through-holes 37 (first indexes) in a comb main body 32 as the indexes indicative of dimensions, similar to the comb 1 of the first embodiment described above. In addition, a plurality of valley portions 38 b and auxiliary valley portions 38 c are formed in an upper surface 32 f of the comb main body 32 so that these valley portions 38 b and the auxiliary valley portions 38 c are used as indexes (second indexes).

The plurality of valley portions 38 b are formed at locations corresponding to the centers of the plurality of through-holes 37, and, thereby, the intervals of the valley portions 38 b are the distance L (also, the distance from the valley portion 38 b closest to the one end edge comb part 33 to the outer edge of the one end edge comb part 33 is also the distance L). The valley portion 38 b is dented in a V-shape, the ratio of the opening width and the depth is about 1:1, and the opening width and the depth are about 3 mm, as one example.

Each of the auxiliary valley portions 38 c is formed so as to be located in the middle of the adjacent valley portions 38 b, and the intervals of the auxiliary valley portions 38 c and the valley portions 38 b are a distance L/2, respectively (also, the distance from the auxiliary valley portion 38 c closest to the one end edge comb part 33 to the outer edge of the one end edge comb part 33 is the distance L/2). Although the auxiliary valley portions 38 c are also V-shaped dents, their depth is shallower than the depth of the valley portions 3 b described above. As one example, the auxiliary valley portions 38 c have an opening width of 3 mm, and a depth of about 1.5 mm. Note that a convex mountain portion 38 a is formed between each valley portion 38 b and auxiliary valley portion 38 c which are adjacent to each other. A concave-convex part 38 comprised of the valley portions 38 b, the auxiliary valley portions 38 c, and the mountain portions 38 a functions as a locking portion of a fingertip for the type of user who holds the comb while applying his/her fingertip along the upper surface 32 f of the comb main body 32.

The comb 31 is equivalent to the comb 1 of the first embodiment other than the parts described above. For example, the one end edge comb part 33 is formed on one end side of the comb main body 32 from which a plurality of comb teeth 36 are extended. In the one end edge comb part 33, outer edge portions 33 e and 33 f are formed in one end outer edge surface 33 c, on both sides of one end dented portion 33 d.

With such a comb 31, the parting work for forming the beautiful parting and the correct measurements of length in the stable posture can be carried out by the one end dented portion 33 d of the one end edge comb part 33, similar to the comb 1 of the first embodiment described above. In addition, since, in the comb 31, the valley portions 38 b and the auxiliary valley portions 38 c are formed in the upper surface 32 f of the comb main body 32, the measurements can be made at the upper surface 32 f of the comb main body 32 which can easily be placed along the head hair when measuring and, thus, the measurements can be carried out more easily. Further, since the distance L/2 which is a half of the distance L can be measured by the auxiliary valley portions 38 c, the measurements can be carried out in more detail by the two kinds of indexes that are the valley portions 38 b and the auxiliary valley portions 38 c.

In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 9( b), the comb 31 is possible to lock (stop) the back edge portion of one blade of a pair of hairdressing scissors at the valley portion 38 b and the auxiliary valley portion 38 c. If the back edge portion of the blade of the hairdressing scissors is locked, the hairdressing scissors can be positioned by the valley portion 38 b or the auxiliary valley portion 38 c in the case of cutting the hair. Therefore, the length to be cut is measured by the valley portion 38 b or the auxiliary valley portion 38 c, and in the state where the measurement is made, if the back edge portion of the blade of the hairdressing scissors is locked by the valley portion 38 b or the auxiliary valley portion 38 c to position the hairdressing scissors and the cut is then carried out, the cut can smoothly be carried out at the correct length.

Note that the comb 31 according to the fourth embodiment is not limited to the form as described above, but, for example, if the measurement of the distance L/2 is unnecessary, it is possible to omit the formation of the auxiliary valley portions 38 c, and it is also possible to omit the formation of the through-holes 37. In addition, in the comb 31, the other end side of the comb main body 32 may also be formed similar to that of the comb 1 of the first embodiment described above, or the grip part similar to the comb 11 of the second embodiment described above may be provided, or the bar-shaped grip part similar to the comb 21 of the third embodiment described above may be provided.

FIG. 10( a) illustrates a comb 41 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. The comb 41 of the fourth embodiment has a feature in the indexes indicative of dimensions, and the indexes are configured to be distinguishable from other common comb teeth 46 a, by forming the comb teeth located at positions indicative of the distances L, so as to be wider to use them as index comb teeth 46 b. Note that the comb 41 has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment, for one end edge comb part and the other end edge comb part.

In other words, as illustrated in FIG. 10( b), the common comb teeth 46 a have a dimension W1 at the location where the width is the widest. On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 10( c), the index comb teeth 46 b have a dimension W2 at the location where the width is the widest (W1<W2). The dimension W2 is set larger than a thickness (a dimension in the Z-axis direction) of the comb main body 42. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 10( a), in a state where the comb main body 42 is seen from an upper surface 42 f thereof, the index comb teeth 46 b is configured to protrude from both side surfaces 42 c and 42 d of the comb main body 42. Therefore, the location at every distance L can be checked by using the index comb teeth 46 b. Note that the index comb tooth 46 b closest to the one end part 42 a side of the comb main body 42 is located at the distance L from a top portion 43 g of the outer edge.

Thus, in the comb 41 of the fifth embodiment, since the measurement can be carried out by the unit of the distance L by the index comb teeth 46 b which project from the side surfaces 42 c and 42 d of the comb main body 42, the formation of the through-holes in the side surfaces of the comb main body 42 can be omitted, and the formation of the valley portions, etc., in the upper surface of the comb main body 42 as illustrated in FIG. 9( a) can also be omitted. Further, since the interval of the length of the distance L can be confirmed by using the projected index comb teeth 46 b not only by sight but also by the sense of touch such as with a fingertip, it is advantageous that the outline of the length can be confirmed with only the sense of touch, without needing to visually check each length. Note that in the comb 41 of the fifth embodiment, the various modifications described in the above fourth embodiment are also applicable to the other end side of the comb main body 42.

FIG. 11 illustrates a comb 51 according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. The comb 51 of the sixth embodiment also features of indexes indicative of dimensions. The comb 51 uses first indexes formed in one side surface 52 c of a comb main body 52, and second indexes formed in the other side surface 52 d as indexes of a different unit system to be applicable to measurements based on two kinds of unit systems by this single comb 51.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, and FIGS. 12( a) and (b), in the comb 51, a curved part 58 which is comprised of a plurality of convex portions 58 a and concave portions 58 b is formed in the one side surface 52 c of the comb main body 52. The respective convex portions 58 a are spaced at intervals with distances L1 (refer to FIG. 12( a)), and, the convex portion 58 a closest to a top portion 53 g of one end outer edge surface 53 c of one end edge comb part 53 provided on one end side 52 a of the comb main body 52 is located at the distance L1 from a top portion 53 g. The distance L1 corresponds to a dimension of the millimeter unit system as a first distance unit system, and is set to 10 mm as one example. Note that the convex portions 58 a of the curved part 58 correspond to the first indexes (indexes indicative of the distance from the one end outer edge surface 53 c of the comb 51) (further, the interval between the convex portion 58 a and the concave portion 58 b which are adjacent to each other is a half of L1).

In addition, in the comb 51, a curved part 59 which is comprised of a plurality of convex portions 59 a and a plurality of concave portions 59 b is formed on the other side surface 52 d of the comb main body 52. The respective convex portions 59 a are spaced at intervals with distances L2 (refer to FIG. 12( b)), the convex portion 59 a closest to a top portion 54 g of the other end outer edge surface 54 c of the other end edge comb part 54 provided to the other end side 52 b of the comb main body 52 is located at the distance L2 from the top portion 54 g. This distance L2 corresponds to a dimension of the inch unit system as a second distance unit system, and is set to 1 inch as one example. Note that the convex portions 59 a of the curved part 59 correspond to second indexes (indexes indicative of the distance from the other end outer edge surface 54 c of the comb 51) (further, the interval of the convex portion 59 a and the concave portion 59 b which are adjacent to each other is a half of L2).

Note that the dimensions in the longitudinal direction of the comb main body 52 of the comb 51 are not formed in the unit dimension exactly corresponding to a 10-mm unit and a 1-inch unit (it is formed in the dimension which produces a fraction in millimeters or inches). Therefore, in the one side surface 52 c of the comb main body 52, the convex portion 58 a closest to the top portion of the other end outer edge surface 54 c of the other end edge comb part 54 is formed so that the dimension from the top portion 54 g of the other end outer edge surface 54 c is not the distance L1 because of the full length dimension of the comb main body 52. Similarly, in the other side surface 52 d of the comb main body 52, the convex portion 59 a closest to the top portion of the one end outer edge surface 53 c of the one end edge comb part 53 is formed so that the dimension from the top portion 53 g of the one end outer edge surface 53 c is not the distance L2 because of the full length dimension of the comb main body 52.

In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 11, the comb 51 is provided with one end edge comb part 53 on one end side 52 a of the comb main body 52, and this one end edge comb part 53 is formed with outer edge portions 53 e and 53 f on both sides of one end dented portion 53 d formed in the one end outer edge surface 53 c, similar to the comb 1 of the first embodiment described above. Further, the other end edge comb part 54 provided on the other end side 52 b of the comb main body 52 is provided with outer edge portions 54 e and 54 f on both sides of the other end dented portion 54 d formed in the other end outer edge surface 54 c. Note that the comb main body 52 is formed with a flat grip part in a center part 52 e in the longitudinal direction thereof, and an upper surface 52 f thereof is also formed so as to be flat. However, valley portions (auxiliary valley portions) and mountain portions may be formed similar to the comb 31 according to the fourth embodiment of FIGS. 9( a) and (b), and the valley portions may be spaced at intervals set to correspond to either the distance L1 or the distance L2 described above. Alternatively or additionally, they may be indexes indicative of a third distance interval (distance L3) as third indexes.

Such a comb 51 is characterized by the measurements of length which are made based on the two kinds of unit systems. In other words, when the one end outer edge surface 53 c of the one end edge comb part 53 is pressed against the scalp, the measurements of length can be carried out based on the unit of the distance L1 or the half of L1 (the unit in mm) by using the convex portions 58 a or the concave portions 58 b of the curved part 58 formed in the one side surface 52 c of the comb main body 52. Further, when the other end outer edge portion 54 c of the other end edge comb part 54 is pressed against the scalp, the measurements of length can be carried out based on the unit of the distance L2 or the half of L2 (the unit in inches) by using the convex portions 59 a or the concave portions 59 b of the curved part 59 formed in the other side surface 52 d of the comb main body 52. Note that also in such measurements, the posture of the comb 51 can be stabilized during the measurements and the length can be correctly measured by the one end dented portion 53 d and the other end dented portion 54 d. Further, by the comb 51 according to the sixth embodiment, the parting work as illustrated in FIG. 3 can also be suitably carried out by each of the dented portions 53 d and 54 d.

Note that the comb 51 according to the sixth embodiment is not limited to the form as described above, and as for the two kinds of indexes, it is also possible to suitably use the through-holes illustrated in FIG. 1, described above, etc., the valley portions formed in the comb main body upper surface illustrated in FIG. 9( a), the wider comb illustrated in FIG. 10, or the conventional scales, etc., instead of at least one of the convex portion 58 a and the convex portion 59 a. Note that the indexes of the convex portions 58 a and the convex portions 59 a formed in the comb main body side surfaces can also be applied to the comb 1 of the first to fifth embodiments described above, etc.

FIGS. 13( a) and (b) illustrate a comb 61 according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. Although the comb 61 of the seventh embodiment is equivalent to the comb 1 of the first embodiment in its fundamental parts, it is characterized by a comb part 69 having a plurality of comb teeth 69 a which is formed in one end edge comb part 63. In this comb part 69 one end outer edge surface 63 c is formed with a locus K (illustrated by a dashed-dotted line K in FIG. 13( a)) indicative of the positions of tip ends of respective comb teeth 69 a. In other words, the one end outer edge surface 63 c is formed with a concave portion by shortening the comb teeth 69 a at a part corresponding to one end dented portion 63 d so as to have a shape equivalent to the one end outer edge surface 3 c of the comb 1 of the first embodiment. Further, the comb teeth 69 a at parts corresponding to outer edge portions 63 e and 63 f are lengthened to protrude respective tip ends so that convex outer edge portions 63 e and 63 f are formed.

By configuring the comb part 69 as described above, even if the tip ends of the respective comb teeth 69 a are pressed against the scalp Ha as illustrated in FIGS. 4, 5, etc., the measurements of the length of hair (the hair bundle) can be carried out, while securing the state of two-point contact, similarly to the comb 1 illustrated in FIG. 1, etc. Note that since the respective comb teeth 69 a are pressed against the scalp Ha, if they are considered to be used for the head part of the human body, it is preferred that the shape of the tip ends is rounded to some extent, rather than a pointed shape. Further, although the teeth lengths of the respective comb teeth 61 a are about 5 mm for the shortest and about 8 mm for the longest in the example illustrated in FIG. 13( a), they are not limited to these teeth lengths but the value range of about 1 mm to about 10 mm can be applied, and it is preferred to ensure teeth lengths of 3 mm or longer if the comb's function (the function to push the hair aside) is particularly desired to be certainly demonstrated. Note that a comb main body 62 is of course provided with normal comb teeth 66.

FIG. 13( b) is a schematic perspective view illustrating a state of use of the comb 61. Since the comb 61 has the comb part 69 in the one end edge comb part 63, when the measurements of the length of hair are carried out, hair bundles h40 and h41 can be pushed aside by the respective comb teeth 69 a of the comb part 69 while pressing the one end outer edge surface 63 c against the scalp Ha. Further, since respective hairs which constitute the pushed-aside hair bundles h40 and h41 get caught between the respective comb teeth 69 a, the tip ends of the respective comb teeth 69 a can contact with the scalp Ha. Thus, even in the case where the hair (hair bundle) of the head part with a large amount of hair is measured, the comb 61 allows correct measurements of the hair length by securely pressing the one end outer edge surface 63 c (the tip ends of the respective comb teeth 69 a corresponding to the outer edge portions 63 e and 63 f) against the scalp after the hair is pushed aside by the comb part 69.

Note that in the comb 61 according to the seventh embodiment, as for the indexes according to the measurements, corresponding portions in the respective embodiments described above can suitably be used. Further, as long as the respective comb teeth 69 a of the comb part 69 are given flexibility, they can conform to the shape of the scalp to some extent. Therefore, the tip ends of the respective comb teeth 69 a may be formed so that they are aligned linearly. Further, the parting work as illustrated in FIG. 3 can suitably be carried out by the comb 61 according to the seventh embodiment with the dented portion 63 d.

FIG. 14 illustrates a comb 71 according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. The comb 71 of the eighth embodiment is characterized by being formed in a shape so that one end outer edge surface 73 c which is the outer circumference side of one end edge comb part 73 provided on one end side 72 a of comb main body 72 inclines about 45° with respect to the X-axis direction, and in a shape so that the other end outer edge surface 74 c which is the outer circumference side of the other edge comb part 74 provided on the other end side 72 b inclines about 22.5° with respect to the X-axis direction.

In other words, the one end edge comb part 73 is formed obliquely so that the one end outer edge surface 73 c is along an inclination line K1 which is inclined by 45° with respect to the X-axis direction, and, thereby, the entire shape of the one end edge comb part 73 is formed in a triangular shape. In addition, the one end edge comb part 73 is formed with one end dented portion 73 d between an outer edge portion 73 e on a tip end 73 a side and an outer edge portion 73 f on a base end 73 b side.

Further, the other end edge comb part 74 is configured so that the other end outer edge surface 74 c is obliquely formed along an inclination line K2 which is inclined by 22.5° with respect to the X-axis direction, and, thereby, the entire shape of the other end edge comb part 74 also has a sharp triangular shape. Moreover, the other end edge comb part 74 is formed with the other end dented portion 74 d between an outer edge portion 74 e on a tip end 74 a side and an outer edge portion 74 f on a base end 74 b side.

Note that in the comb 71, a plurality of through-holes 77 which serve as indexes indicative of distances are formed in the comb main body 72 similarly to the comb 1 of the first embodiment. However, since the one end edge comb part 73 and the other end edge comb part 74 are a triangular shape, respectively, and since the one end edge comb part 73 and the other end edge comb part 74 have a large area compared with the case of the first embodiment, the through-holes 77 are formed also in the one end edge comb part 73 and the other end edge comb part 74. Further, in the comb 71, convex portions 78 are formed in an upper surface 72 f of the comb main body 72 so that the centers of the convex portions 78 correspond to the centers of the through-holes 77, and each of the convex portions 78 is also an index indicative of a distance. These indexes indicate distances from the one end outer edge portion 73 c, and also indicate distances from the other end outer edge portion 74 c. Note that in the comb main body 2, the side surfaces and an upper surface 72 f at a center part 72 e in the longitudinal direction are formed to be flat and used as grip parts.

FIGS. 15( a) and (b) illustrate a situation where the comb 71 of the eighth embodiment is used for the human head model H. Note that in FIGS. 15( a) and (b), in order to clarify a feature of the state of use, illustration of the entire implanted hair is omitted.

FIG. 15( a) is a view seen from the side of the human head model H, and illustrates a case where the one end outer edge surface 73 c of the one end edge comb part 73 is pressed against the scalp. For example, when measuring the length of a hair bundle implanted near the neck in a rear portion of the head part of the human head model H, the comb 71 is pressed against the scalp at the one end edge comb part 73 in a posture in which comb teeth 76 are oriented upwardly. Here, the scalp Ha near the neck in the rear portion of the head part of the human head model H is a downwardly oblique curved surface which is curved downwardly toward the left as illustrated in FIG. 15( a). When the one end outer edge portion 73 c which is inclined at 45° is pressed against the scalp Ha having such a downwardly curved surface, the comb 71 is in a substantially horizontal posture, and this posture can be stabilized by the one end dented portion 73 d.

When measuring the length of a hair bundle implanted near a front part or near a rear part of the top portion of the human head model H, if the one end outer edge surface 73 c which is inclined at 45°, of the one end edge comb part 73 is pressed against the scalp, the comb 71 is oriented in a substantially vertical direction, and also, this posture can be stabilized by the one end dented portion 73 d in such a case.

Note that since the orientation of the comb 71 is in the substantially horizontal direction or in the substantially vertical direction during measurement, the comb 71 is easy to use as a ruler which matches with a user's (a beautician or a barber) sense of direction. In other words, when the user (a beautician or a barber) carries out work, such as cutting the hair or setting the hair style, he/she uses unconsciously, as the ruler in the substantially vertical direction or the substantially horizontal direction, a line indicating the vertical direction or a line indicating the horizontal direction which exists in the environment of the work place, such as a vertical line or a lateral line of the frame of a rectangular mirror, or a vertical line or a horizontal line of a cabinet. Therefore, since with the comb 71, the posture in the state where the one end outer edge portion 73 c is pressed against the head part can be oriented in the substantially horizontal direction or in the substantially vertical direction, the direction match with the vertical line in the vertical direction or the lateral line in the horizontal direction, which are used as the ruler existing in the environment of the user as described above. Thus, the directions match with the user's sense of direction, and the comb 71 is effective for user-friendliness in practical (refer to FIGS. 15( a) and (b)).

FIG. 15( b) is a view seen from the front of the human head model H, and illustrates a state where the one end outer edge surface 73 c of the comb 71 is pressed against the scalp. Also in such a case, since the posture of the comb 71 while measuring the length of the hair bundle implanted near the left-and-right temporal regions, and the right side and the left side of the top portion of the human head model are in substantially horizontal direction or in substantially vertical direction, the direction match with the user's sense, and the posture can be stabilized by the one end dented portion 73 d (note that illustration of the hair is omitted in FIG. 15).

Further, practical skill tasks in which the head hair is pulled outward at about 45° from the scalp and is cut by a predetermined length may generally be assigned, for example, for practical skill instruction at a barber school or a beauty school, or practical skill official examinations of hairdressing and beauty. In such a case, the method of measuring with the comb 71 as illustrated in FIGS. 15( a) and (b) matches with such practical skill problems.

Further, FIG. 16( a) is a view seen from the side of the human head model H, and FIG. 16( b) is a view seen from above the human head model H. Both the figures illustrate a case where the other end outer edge surface 74 c of the other end edge comb part 74 is pressed against the scalp Ha. Also in such a case, measurements of the length of the head hair can be carried out in a direction which is inclined at 22.5° with respect to the scalp Ha by the other end outer edge surface 74 c which is inclined at 22.5°, and the posture during measurement can be stabilized by the other end dented portion 74 d. Further, practical skill tasks in which the hair is pulled outward at about 22.5° from the scalp and is cut may be assigned, for example, for practical skill instruction at a barber school or a beauty school, or practical skill official examinations of hairdressing and beauty. In such a case, the method of measuring by the comb 71 as illustrated in FIGS. 16( a) and (b) matches with such practical skill problems, etc. As described above, the comb 71 of the eighth embodiment is advantageous in that the measurements of length according to the two angles of inclination can be carried out by the single comb 71.

Note that the comb 71 according to the eighth embodiment is not limited to the form as described above, but other values may of course be applied to the inclination angles of the one end outer edge surface 73 c and the other end outer edge surface 74 c. Further, if the specification of the comb 71 is to be simplified, it is also possible to form either the one end outer edge portion 73 c or the other end outer edge portion 74 c in the same configuration as the conventional art. In such a case, the measurements of length of the head hair can be carried out at the inclined angle by one of the inclined outer edge surfaces. Also in the comb 71 of the eighth embodiment, it is possible to suitably use the indexes of the respective embodiments described above. Further, the comb 71 according to the eighth embodiment can also suitably allow the parting work as illustrated in FIG. 3 by the one end dented portion 73 d of the one end edge comb part 73.

FIG. 17( a) illustrates a comb 81 according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. The comb 81 of the ninth embodiment is characterized by a concave portion 83 i which is formed in an outer edge portion 83 f on a base end 83 b side of one end edge comb part 83 provided on one end side 82 a of a comb main body 82 from which a plurality of comb teeth 86 are extended. Note that the fundamental shape itself of the one end edge comb part 83 is equivalent to the comb 1 of the first embodiment. In the one end edge comb part 83, a one end dented portion 83 d is formed in a center part of a one end outer edge surface 83 c in the Y-axis direction, and convex outer edge portions 83 e and 83 f are formed in a tip end 83 a and a base end 83 b, respectively.

As illustrated in FIG. 17( b), the one end edge comb part 83 is formed so that the thickness thereof in the Z-axis direction is larger at the base end 83 b side than the tip end 83 a side, where the thickness of the tip end 83 a is W12 and the thickness of the base end 83 b is W11 (W11>W12).

Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 17( a), (b), and (c), the concave portion 83 i is formed in the center part in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction) of the outer edge portion 83 f of the one end outer edge surface 83 c on the base end 83 b side. The outer edge portion 83 f of the base end 83 b has a shape which is divided into two parts by the concave portion 83 i.

FIG. 18 illustrates a state where the one end outer edge portion 83 c of the one end edge comb part 83 is pressed against the scalp Ha. In such a case, as described above, since the outer edge portion 83 f of the base end 83 b is divided into the two parts by the concave portion 83 i, a total of three locations including the outer edge portion 83 e of the tip end 83 a contact the scalp Ha. As a result, the comb 81 can ensure the state of the three-point contact, the shaking in the direction (the Y-axis direction) described in FIG. 6 of the comb 1 of the first embodiment can be prevented, the shaking in the thickness direction (the Z-axis direction) illustrated by the white arrows in FIG. 18 can also be prevented, and a more stable posture can be maintained. Thereby, the measurements of the length of the hair can be carried out more correctly by a plurality of through-holes 87 formed in the comb main body 82.

Note that in the comb 81 according to the ninth embodiment, the indexes of the respective embodiments described above can be used suitably as the indexes for the measurements. Further, it is possible to use the configurations of the first embodiment to the third embodiment as described above suitably as the configuration on the other end side of the comb main body 82. Further, the configurations of the respective parts of the comb 1 according to the first embodiment to the comb 81 according to the ninth embodiment as described above can also be combined suitably. Further, the comb 81 according to the ninth embodiment also allows the suitable parting work as illustrated in FIG. 3 by the one end dented portion 83 d of the one end edge comb part 83.

FIGS. 19( a) and (b) illustrate a comb 91 according to a tenth embodiment. The comb 91 is characterized by scales 98 and 99 which are respectively given to one side surface 92 c and the other side surface 92 d of a comb main body 92 where a plurality of through-holes 97 are formed. The scales 98 and 99 are comprised of long lines with a 10-mm interval and short lines indicative of a dimension of 5 mm between the respective long lines. In order to measure a dimension from both sides of one end side 92 a and the other end side 92 b of the comb main body 92, the respective long lines and short lines are drawn so that the dimensions from both the ends on the one end side 92 a and the other end side 92 b are indicated. Note that the centers of the through-holes 97 formed in the comb main body 92 are located corresponding to the long lines indicative of the 10-mm intervals of the scales 98 and 99, and the respective through-holes 97 also function as indexes indicative of the 10-mm intervals is illustrated. Further, in the comb 91, one end edge comb part 93 which is formed with one end dented portion 93 d and the other end edge comb part 94 formed with the other end dented portion 94 d are formed at one end side 92 a and the other end side 92 b of the comb main body 92, to allow stable measurements of the head hair by either side, while allowing the parting work as illustrated in FIG. 3 by either side (since the closest comb tooth to the other end edge comb part 94 is short, the parting work is especially easy).

FIGS. 20( a) and (b) illustrate a comb 101 according to an eleventh embodiment, and the comb 101 differs from the comb 91 of the tenth embodiment in the forms of the scales. In other words, scales 108 and 109 are respectively given to one side surface 102 c and the other side surface 102 d of a comb main body 102, and both the scales 108 and 109 are configured to allow measurements of a dimension from one end 102 a side of the comb main body 102. Further, the scales 108 and 109 are not for measurements of a fine dimension like the tenth embodiment (10 mm, 5 mm), but the scales 108 and 109 indicate only dimensions which are commonly and often used for practical skill official examinations, actual work in beauty parlors, (2 cm, 4 cm, 6 cm, 10 cm, etc.), etc., and, thereby, the scales are configured to indicate necessary dimensions to be easily recognizable at a glance. Note that in the comb 101, one end edge comb part 103 formed with one end dented portion 103 d and the other end edge comb part 104 formed with the other end dented portion 104 d are formed at the one end side 102 a and the other end side 102 b of the comb main body 102, to allow suitable parting work as illustrated in FIG. 3 by either side (since the closest comb tooth to the other end edge comb part 94 is short, the parting work is especially easy).

FIGS. 21( a) and (b) illustrate a comb 111 according to a twelfth embodiment. This comb 111 is characterized by side dented portions 113 m and 113 n which are formed in side surfaces 113 j and 113 k of one end edge comb part 113 formed on one end 112 a side of a comb main body 112.

First, in the one end edge comb part 113, one end dented portion 113 d is formed in one end outer edge surface 113 c, similarly the comb 1 of the first embodiment as described above, etc. Further, in the one end edge comb part 113, the one side dented portion 113 m is formed in the side surface 113 j which faces the same direction as one side surface 112 c of the comb main body 112, in a center part between a tip end 113 a side and a base end 113 b side (the one side dented portion 113 m is dented parallel to the Z-axis direction (thickness direction)). Further, in the one end edge comb part 113, the other side dented portion 113 n is formed in the side surface 113 k which faces the same direction as the other side surface 112 d of the comb main body 112, in a center part between the tip end 113 a side and the base end 113 b side (the other side dented portion 113 n is dented parallel to the Z-axis direction (the thickness direction)).

The one end dented portion 113 d of the one end outer edge surface 113 c, the side dented portion 113 m of the one side surface 113 j, and the other side dented portion 113 n of the other side surface 113 k are formed at the same location in the Y-axis direction, and, thereby, the respective dented portions 113 d, 113 m, and 113 n are formed so that the respective dented portions 113 d, 113 m, and 113 n communicate with each other. Therefore, the one end edge comb part 113 has a shape which is narrowed at three sides of the one end outer edge surface 113 c, the one side surface 113 j, and the other side surface 113 k, in the center part between the tip end 113 a side and the base end 113 b side. Note that the comb 111 according to the twelfth embodiment has a form equivalent to the comb 1 of the first embodiment, etc., other than the parts described above.

FIGS. 22( a) and (b) illustrate one example of a case of carrying out a parting work using the one end edge comb part 113 of the comb 111. When carrying out the parting work, there are, for example, some users who not only apply a finger to the one end edge comb part 113, but apply fingers to two sides from the one end outer edge surface 113 c over to the one side surface 113 j, and some users who apply fingers to two sides from the one end outer edge surface 113 c over to the other side surface 113 k, and some users who apply fingers to three sides of the one end outer edge surface 113 c, the one side surface 113 j, and the other side surface 113 k. Such various ways of applying fingers are based on such reasons as the user's right- or left-handedness, the thickness of the user's finger, the user's preferred method of holding the comb, etc.

FIGS. 22( a) and (b) illustrate, among the various finger applying methods described above, an example of applying the finger to two sides from the one end outer edge surface 113 c to the one side surface 113 m, where FIG. 22( a) is a view seen from above the comb, and FIG. 22( b) is a view seen from the one end outer edge surface 113 c. When carrying out a parting work, a finger F applied to the one end edge comb part 113 which is pressed at a tip end 113 a thereof against the parting line W to be formed in the scalp Ha covers two sides from the one end outer edge surface 113 c to the one side surface 113 j and pinches a hair bundle divided outwardly by the one end edge comb part 113 between the two circumferential sides of the one end edge comb part 113 and the finger F. The hair bundle pinched between the two sides of the one end edge comb part 113 and the finger F is spreads naturally within a space formed between the one end dented portion 113 d and the one side dented portion 113 m.

Further, since the respective parts on the tip end 113 a side and the base end 113 b side which are located on both sides of the one end dented portion 113 d and the one side dented portion 113 m (parts located on both sides in the Y-axis direction) are convex in the two sides of the one end edge comb part 113, the user's finger F contacts centering on these convex parts. Thus, a gap is produced between the finger F and the outer circumferential surface of the one end edge comb part 113. Therefore, the tendency of the hair bundle pinched between the finger F and the outer circumferential surface of the one end edge comb part 113 to get stuck can also be reduced, because of the existence of the gap.

As described above, the tendency of the hair bundle between the one end edge comb part 113 and the finger F to be stuck over a large range in the Y-axis direction like the conventional arts are eliminated. Further, when the one end edge comb part 113 is moved toward an arrow illustrated in FIG. 22( a) along the line where the parting line W is to be formed, the resistance due to the hair bundle being stuck is significantly reduced compared with the conventional arts, and, thereby, the one end edge comb part 113 can smoothly be moved. Accordingly, the situation where some hairs have slipped out from the hair bundle divided outside the one end edge comb part 113 will not be caused, and, thereby, the clear parting line W can be formed.

The details based on FIGS. 22( a) and (b) are examples, and when the finger is applied to the two sides from the one end outer edge surface 113 c to the other side surface 113 k, and when the finger is applied to the three sides of the one end outer edge surface 113 c, the one side surface 113 j, and the other side surface 113 k, the resistance due to the hair bundle being stuck is reduced, the one end edge comb part 113 is moved smoothly, and the efficient parting work can be carried out, as in the above details of FIGS. 22( a) and (b). Note that the comb 111 of the twelfth embodiment ensures functions equivalent to the comb 1 of the first embodiment, etc., other than the details described above, and, of course, it is also possible to press the one end outer edge surface 113 c of the one end edge comb part 113 against the scalp to correctly measure the length of the hair.

Further, the comb 111 according to the twelfth embodiment may be configured such that the side dented portions 113 m and 113 n are formed only in either one of the side surfaces 113 j and 113 k on both sides of the one end edge comb part 113. If the side dented portion is formed in only either one of the side surfaces 113 j and 113 k, it is suitable for the user who carries out the parting work by applying his/her finger to the side surface 113 on the side where the side dented portion is formed. In addition, since the dimension in the thickness direction (the Z-axis direction) of the one end edge comb part 113 is thicker than the case where the side dented portions 113 m and 113 m are formed on both the side surfaces 113 j and 113 k, it is easier to ensure the rigidity of the one end edge comb part 113.

The configurations, the modifications, etc., of the first to eleventh embodiments described above can also be applied to the comb 111 according to the twelfth embodiment, and, for example, the various forms described above are applicable to the indexes required for the measurements of length. Further, the comb 111 of the twelfth embodiment may be configured so that the other end edge comb part on the other end side of the comb main body 112 is formed equivalent to the one end edge comb part 113 which is formed with the side dented portions described above, and, by configuring in this way, the parting work can favorably be carried out regardless of which one of the comb edge parts is used.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention may be used optimally by using the comb not only for hairdressing but for efficiently producing a beautiful parting line, and for assisting a precise hair cut by correctly measuring lengths of hair (hair bundles).

DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS

-   -   1: Comb     -   2: Comb Main Body     -   3: One End Edge Comb Part     -   3 c: One End Outer Edge Surface     -   3 d: One End Dented Portion     -   3 e, 3 f: Outer Edge Portion     -   4: The Other End Edge Comb Part     -   4 c: The Other End Outer Edge Surface     -   4 d: The Other End Dented Portion     -   4 e, 4 f: Outer Edge Portion     -   7: Through-Hole     -   15: Grip Part     -   38: Concave-Convex Part     -   38 a: Mountain Portion     -   38 b: Valley Portion     -   58, 59: Curved Part     -   69: Comb Part     -   83 i: Concave Portion     -   113 m, 113 n: Side Dented Portion 

1. A comb comprising a comb main body, one end edge comb part formed on one end side in a longitudinal direction of the comb main body, and a plurality of comb teeth formed on the comb main body, wherein the one end edge comb part has a sharpened tip end to be used for formation of a parting line in head hair; and a dented portion is formed in an outer edge surface between a tip end side and a base end side of the one end edge comb part so as to make a space in which a hair bundle of the parting line is spread, the hair bundle being pinched by a finger applied to the outer edge surface.
 2. The comb as recited in claim 1, wherein the comb main body has indexes indicative of distances parallel to the longitudinal direction as the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is pressed against a scalp to contact outer edge portions that remain on both sides of the dented portion with the scalp, wherein a measurement of a length of head hair is carried out based on the indexes by applying the outer edge surface of the one end against the scalp.
 3. The comb as recited in claim 2, wherein a grip part is formed on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the comb main body, wherein an outer edge dented portion is formed in an outer edge surface of the grip part, and wherein the measurement of the length of the head hair is carried out based on the indexes by applying the outer edge surface of the grip part to the scalp to contact outer edge portions that remain on both sides of the outer edge dented portion with the scalp.
 4. The comb as recited in claim 2, comprising an other end edge comb part formed on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the comb main body, wherein an other end dented portion is formed in an outer edge surface between a tip end side and a base end side of the other end edge comb part, and wherein the measurement of the length of the head hair can be carried out based on the indexes by applying the outer edge surface of the other end edge comb part to the scalp to contact outer edge portions that remain on both sides of the other end dented portion with the scalp.
 5. The comb as recited in claim 2, wherein the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is formed obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the comb main body.
 6. The comb as recited in claim 4, wherein the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is formed obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the comb main body. 7-12. (canceled)
 13. The comb as recited in claim 4, wherein the outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part and the outer edge surface of the other end edge comb part are formed obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the comb main body, respectively, and wherein an angle of the oblique outer edge surface of the one end edge comb part is different from an angle of the oblique outer edge surface of the other end edge comb part.
 14. The comb as recited in claim 4, wherein the comb main body has first indexes indicative of distances from the one end side of the comb main body and second indexes indicative of distances from the other end side of the comb main body.
 15. The comb as recited in claim 13, wherein the comb main body has first indexes indicative of distances from the one end side of the comb main body and second indexes indicative of distances from the other end side of the comb main body.
 16. The comb as recited in claim 2, wherein the comb main body has first indexes corresponding to a first distance unit system and second indexes corresponding to a second distance unit system.
 17. The comb as recited in claim 4, wherein the comb main body has first indexes corresponding to a first distance unit system and second indexes corresponding to a second distance unit system.
 18. The comb as recited in claim 15, wherein the first indexes are different in appearance from the second indexes.
 19. The comb as recited in claim 1, wherein a comb part having a plurality of comb teeth is provided to the one end edge comb part, and tip ends of the respective comb teeth of the comb part form the outer surface.
 20. The comb as recited in claim 2, wherein a comb part having a plurality of comb teeth is provided to the one end edge comb part, and tip ends of the respective comb teeth of the comb part form the outer surface.
 21. The comb as recited in claim 1, wherein a thickness of the one end edge comb part is larger at the base end side than the tip end side, and wherein a concave portion is formed in the outer edge surface at a center portion in a thickness direction, on the base end side of the one end edge comb part.
 22. The comb as recited in claim 2, wherein a thickness of the one end edge comb part is larger at the base end side than the tip end side, and wherein a concave portion is formed in the outer edge surface at a center portion in a thickness direction, on the base end side of the one end edge comb part.
 23. The comb as recited in claim 1, wherein a side dented portion is formed in the one end edge comb part, in at least one of side surfaces between the tip end side and the base end side.
 24. The comb as recited in claim 2, wherein a side dented portion is formed in the one end edge comb part, in at least one of side surfaces between the tip end side and the base end side.
 25. The comb as recited in claim 3, wherein a side dented portion is formed in the one end edge comb part, in at least one of side surfaces between the tip end side and the base end side.
 26. The comb as recited in claim 4, wherein a side dented portion is formed in the one end edge comb part, in at least one of side surfaces between the tip end side and the base end side. 